A four-day visit to Yemen by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Mahatir Muhammad has recently ended. It followed discussions by representatives from both countries over the possibilities of enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly regarding investments in the oil sector.

The Malaysian Prime Minister asserted his country’s interest in participating in oil excavation operations and developing Yemen’s oil resources, reported Al-Sharq Al-Awsat. He also added that Malaysia is looking forward to using the port of Aden as a center for re-exporting Malaysian products to neighboring countries in the Middle East and Africa region.

Official statistics reveal that the value of exchanges between Yemen and Malaysia amounted to $67 million last year. This trade volume reflected a large surplus in favor of Malaysia. The Malaysian exports to Yemen totaled $50 million and the Malaysian imports from Yemen amounted to only $17 million in 2000.

Mahathir was accompanied by a several government officials, including the foreign and transport ministers, and 31 corporate leaders representing the private sector. This was Mahathir's first visit to Yemen since his country opened an embassy in Sanaa in 1997. — (Mena Report)